A condom is a sheath that forms a barrier between the penis and the vagina. Condoms can be used alone or with other forms of birth control to provide protection against pregnancy. Latex condoms are the only form of birth control that protects against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).

Pregnancy Rates

Talk to your healthcare provider about the effectiveness of this birth control method.

Male Condom

The male condom is common and easy to find. It fits over the penis. Most condoms for men are made of latex. Some are made of animal membrane or polyurethane.

Female Condom

The female condom is made of polyurethane. It fits inside the vagina. A flexible ring holds the closed end in place over the cervix. Another ring holds the open end in place at the opening of the vagina.

Answer: D. Spermicide alone is only about 71 to 82 percent effective in pregnancy prevention, compared with 85 to 98 percent effectiveness with a male condom, 92 to 99 percent effectiveness with the skin patch, and more than 99 percent effectiveness with an IUD.